The title of this blog is a statement that is becoming more useful as I coach leaders to articulate their values. The primary error that leaders make in articulating values is that they articulate too many. The second error is that they choose words that don't jar the mind and heart in a way that "shakes up" meaning for peoples' lives. The third error is that in an effort not to sound contrived, they end up saying something so inert that values are impotent.
During the vision process at First Presbyterian Church in San Antonio, one of the pastors grabbed a denominational book and read a section of the ordination commitment. The covenant included a promise to serve the people with energy, intelligence, imagination, and love. I have never forgotten this four word sequence.